And Fluid Clutch Patents (Class 475/105)
  • Patent number: 12352339
    Abstract: The SIVRT disclosed includes a unique, ordered geartrain; it allows a large-continuous range of input:output velocity ratios (forward or reverse). This range is controlled by fluid-coupled gearsets which direct the power flow to the output shaft. The SIVRT requires no torque converter or friction clutches and has been designed for fully-loaded work machines which must operate reliably at creep speeds for extended periods with 1-3 stop-reverse-stop-forward operations every minute of the workshift. The “clutchless” Vformer system disclosed herein provides a robust, heavy-duty, continuously-variable mechanical transmission especially designed and scaled for applications in vehicles and working machines which operate at creep speeds with frequently “stop-start-reverse” activity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2025
    Inventors: Michael Lee Starkey, Robert Eugene Arnot